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In the non-smoking population, regular exercise reduces symptoms of coronary heart disease (CHD) and reverses the effects of atherosclerosis.[1] Smoking on the other hand is known to accelerate atherosclerosis and increase the likelihood of developing CHD by 24%.[2] With this in mind, it is important to know the relationship between exercise, smoking and CHD irrespective of whether an individual chooses to continue or cease taking regular exercise and cigarettes.

Coronary heart disease describes a condition wherein blood flow to the heart muscle is restricted by fat deposits in the coronary arteries. The accumulation of this fat is a gradual process known as atherosclerosis and is due to a number of contributing factors of which some are predetermined and some are modifiable. Predetermined or unchangeable factors include age, gender and genetic susceptibility to CHD while changeable factors are lifestyle aspects such as diet, exercise, smoking status and social support.[3] CHD is the most prevalent cardiovascular disease in Australia and as such, health intervention aimed at minimising the negative impact of modifiable risk factors is of paramount importance to the individual and country.[4]

Studies undertaken on the interrelationship between CHD, exercise and smoking show that the detriments of smoking are not countered by the benefits of exercise as smokers who participate in regular high activity show the same CHD risk as sedentary non-smokers.[5]

Though there is some benefit to be found in regular exercise for smokers, the detrimental effects of daily smoke inhalation far outweigh the health improvements associated with consistent physical training.[7] As such, complete cessation of smoking is recommended[8]in conjunction with regular moderate physical activity.[9] For more information on exercise guidelines, quitting smoking or coronary heart disease, refer to the following links: